Perfect Prime Rib Roast

A beautifully roasted Prime Rib with a flavorful garlic-herb crust, a juicy pink center, and a rich beefy flavor. Perfect for holidays and special occasions.

Ingredients (Serves 8–10)

• 1 bone-in prime rib roast (5–7 lb / 2.3–3.2 kg)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Optional Au Jus

• 2 cups beef broth
• ½ cup dry red wine (optional)
• Pan drippings
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Roast

• Remove the prime rib from the refrigerator 2–3 hours before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
• Pat the roast dry with paper towels.

2. Make the Herb Butter

In a small bowl, mix together:

• Butter
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Rosemary
• Thyme
• Parsley
• Onion powder
• Smoked paprika (if using)

Rub the mixture generously over the entire roast.

3. Roast

• Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
• Place the roast, fat side up, on a rack in a roasting pan.
• Roast for 20 minutes to develop a flavorful crust.
• Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue roasting until the desired internal temperature is reached.

Internal Temperature Guide

• Rare: 120–125°F (49–52°C)
• Medium-Rare: 130–135°F (54–57°C)
• Medium: 140–145°F (60–63°C)
• Medium-Well: 150–155°F (66–68°C)

Remove the roast from the oven when it’s about 5°F (3°C) below your target temperature, as it will continue to cook while resting.

Approximate Cooking Time

At 325°F (165°C), allow about 15–17 minutes per pound for medium-rare, but always rely on a meat thermometer rather than time alone.

4. Rest

• Tent the roast loosely with foil.
• Let it rest for 20–30 minutes before slicing.

5. Make the Au Jus (Optional)

• Pour off excess fat from the roasting pan.
• Place the pan over medium heat.
• Add the beef broth, red wine (if using), and Worcestershire sauce.
• Scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
• Simmer for 5–10 minutes, then strain if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Yorkshire pudding
• Roasted baby potatoes
• Green beans or asparagus
• Roasted carrots
• Creamed spinach
• Horseradish sauce

Tips for the Best Prime Rib

• Use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness.
• Allowing the roast to come to room temperature promotes more even cooking.
• Resting the meat is essential for juicy slices.
• Slice across the grain for the most tender texture.

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 2–3 hours to come to room temperature)
Cook Time: 1½–2½ hours (depending on roast size and desired doneness)
Rest Time: 20–30 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 4–5 hours
Servings: 8–10